Quick Answer
KRA has made eTIMS registration mandatory for all taxpayers applying for a Tax Compliance Certificate, so no eTIMS means no TCC. iTax now automatically checks eTIMS status and blocks TCC requests for unregistered taxpayers, even if their taxes are fully paid.
Key Takeaways
- KRA has linked TCC issuance to eTIMS registration: no eTIMS, no TCC, and iTax now automatically blocks TCC requests from unregistered taxpayers even when taxes are fully paid.
- eTIMS (Electronic Tax Invoice Management System) validates business transactions in real time to prevent fake or duplicate invoices, and applies to everyone, including freelancers and consultants, not just VAT-registered companies.
- A valid TCC is essential for government and county tenders, business licences, bank loans, NGO and donor projects, and professional or regulatory compliance.
- To register, sign up on the eTIMS Taxpayer Portal via kra.go.ke using your KRA PIN, verify with an OTP sent to your iTax-registered number, pick your eTIMS software under Service Request, and upload a director/partner/owner National ID plus the eTIMS Acknowledgement and Commitment Form.
- You can appoint a representative to handle eTIMS registration by providing a signed introductory letter, the Commitment Form, a National ID copy, and the CR12 Form (companies) or Partnership Deed (partnerships).
Monday, October 27, 2025
If you’ve been wondering why your TCC application suddenly got rejected, here’s why… KRA has made eTIMS registration mandatory for all taxpayers applying for a TCC.
This move aims to strengthen tax compliance across the country, but for many business owners, it’s brought confusion and delays. Here’s what’s changing and how to stay compliant.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why was my TCC application rejected?
KRA has made eTIMS registration mandatory for all TCC applications. If you are not registered on eTIMS, iTax automatically blocks your request with a non-compliance error, even if your taxes are fully paid.
What is eTIMS and who does it apply to?
eTIMS is KRA's Electronic Tax Invoice Management System, which validates every invoice issued or received in real time to prevent fake or duplicate invoices. It applies to everyone, from large corporations to freelancers and consultants, not just VAT-registered businesses.
How do I register for eTIMS step by step?
Sign up on the eTIMS Taxpayer Portal via kra.go.ke using your KRA PIN, enter the OTP sent to your iTax-registered mobile number and create a password, log in, select your eTIMS software under Service Request, then upload a director, partner or owner National ID and the duly filled eTIMS Acknowledgement and Commitment Form before submitting.
Why do I need a TCC in the first place?
A Tax Compliance Certificate is your passport to doing business in Kenya. Without it you can't apply for government or county tenders, renew or apply for business licences, access bank loans, bid for NGO or donor-funded projects, or stay compliant with professional and regulatory bodies.
Can someone else handle my eTIMS registration?
Yes. You can appoint a representative who uploads an introductory letter signed by a director, partner or owner naming the representative, the signed eTIMS Acknowledgement and Commitment Form, a copy of the director/partner/owner National ID, and the CR12 Form for companies or Partnership Deed for partnerships.